7/11/12

{DIY} Custom fabric handbag

This DIY fabric handbag is so customizable and can be as cheap or expensive as your tastes. This leather purse was found for $4 at the thrift store on post; the fabric was about $1.50/yd on sale (I only got a yard); and that rope cord was about a dollar as well. I already had the glue, painters tape, and paintbrush on hand.

1. Stuff the inside of the handbag with grocery bags for an even working surface. Line the edges & the center fastener with painters tape.
2. Lay a slightly oversized piece of the fabric on top of the surface and, using an x-acto knife, cut a small hole around the center fastener.

3. Use the Mod Podge to adhere the fabric to the handbag, starting at the center and working your way out. Paint a layer of Mod Podge on top of the fabric that you've just adhered. Take your time with this and press down on the Mod Podged fabric for a few seconds to secure it. Press down with the end of a paintbrush when adhering the edges/creases.

4. Using the x-acto knife, slowly cut the fabric to fit the handbag, lifting up on the fabric as you cut. The edges will be rough. Not to worry though- the rope or cord will hide it. Remove the painters tape.
5. Line the cord/rope on the edge of the handbag over the rough edges of the fabric. Begin gluing the rope to the fabric/leather, pressing down as you go.

6. Once you've lined all of the edges, cut the rope at your starting/ending point for a seamless look.
7. Let dry per instructions on the glue packaging.